The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, has called for heightened investment in maritime surveillance and related infrastructure to bolster Nigeria’s economic and security outlook. Speaking at a recent maritime industry forum in Lagos, Oyetola emphasized the pivotal role of the maritime sector in driving economic growth and ensuring national security.
Oyetola highlighted that Nigeria’s vast coastline and strategic location in the Gulf of Guinea present immense opportunities for trade and investment. However, he noted that these advantages are undermined by challenges such as piracy, smuggling, and inadequate infrastructure, which hinder the sector’s full potential.
“Investing in maritime surveillance is not just about security; it’s about unlocking the economic potential of our waters,” Oyetola remarked. He pointed to the need for modern surveillance technologies, such as satellite systems, drones, and automated monitoring tools, to enhance the safety of maritime activities and protect Nigeria’s waters from illegal activities.

In addition to surveillance, the minister stressed the importance of upgrading port infrastructure, improving shipping logistics, and fostering private sector partnerships to drive innovation and efficiency in the maritime industry. He noted that these investments are critical for reducing bottlenecks, enhancing trade facilitation, and aligning Nigeria’s maritime sector with global standards.
Industry stakeholders have lauded Oyetola’s call, acknowledging the need for coordinated efforts to address the sector’s challenges. Maritime economist Dr. Tunde Osinowo noted, “The maritime sector has the potential to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, but we must address security and infrastructure gaps to attract more investments.”
The minister also urged regional collaboration among Gulf of Guinea countries to tackle transnational threats such as piracy and illegal fishing. He called for stronger partnerships between governments, international organizations, and private entities to ensure a safe and sustainable maritime environment.
As part of the government’s long-term vision, Oyetola outlined plans to develop Nigeria’s blue economy by harnessing resources such as fisheries, offshore energy, and tourism. He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to creating policies that attract investments, streamline operations, and promote sustainable practices in the maritime space.
With Nigeria’s maritime sector poised for transformation, stakeholders are optimistic that strategic investments and policy reforms will position the country as a leading player in the global maritime economy.
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